Tow to Go available for St. Patrick's Day

(WTVM) - St. Patrick's Day has ended in tragedy for many Americans over the past few years.

Between 2009 and 2013, 276 lives were lost on this holiday due to drunk-driving crashes according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

"We are asking all motorists to plan ahead this St. Patrick's Day if they are going to be away from home and drinking," said Gerry Gutowski, senior vice president, Automotive Services, The Auto Club Group. "That means having a Designated Driver, staying where you are celebrating, or arranging for another form of sober transportation."

Unfortunately, some may not have a plan in place to celebrate safely. That's where Tow to Go operates as a critical last resort.

Whether you are a AAA member or not, you can call for a Tow to Go ride anytime Tuesday, March 17 through 6 a.m. on Wednesday, March 18. AAA will then safely transport you and your vehicle home or somewhere safe within 10 miles.

If you live in Georgia, Florida, or Tennessee, call (855) 2-TOW-2-GO or (855) 286-9246.

"The Tow to Go program is a simple and effective way to help prevent drunk driving," said Kathy Casso, vice president of Corporate Social Responsibility for Anheuser-Busch. "We are proud to join forces with AAA and their team of emergency roadside service drivers to help keep our roads safe across the southeast this St. Patrick's Day."

Since its inception in 1998, Tow to Go has safely removed more than 24,000 impaired drivers from the roads. The service is designed to be used as a last resort. It is offered based on availability of AAA drivers and tow trucks during times of high call volume. The Auto Club Group Traffic Safety Foundation provides the Tow to Go service because it helps keep all motorists safe from the dangers of drunk driving.